Researchers found that babies in homes where antibacterial cleaning products were used at least once a week were more likely to have higher levels of certain gut bacteria. When that group was three-years-old, their body mass index was higher than children who didn't live in homes where disinfectants are frequently used.

The study's authors say that points to a connection between cleaning disinfectants and gut bacteria, but caution more research is needed to confirm a causal relationship.

Previous studies done on animals have found similar results, and others have linked higher levels of a particular gut bacteria with higher body fat and insulin resistance in adults.

The study also found that babies in households using eco-friendly cleaners had lower levels of that bacteria, and weren't as likely to become overweight as toddlers. Researchers note that could be due to other factors related to a healthier lifestyle.